Patagonia | Travel To Patagonia South America

Patagonia – The Chance To Soak Up The Landscape And Cultures Of Both Argentina And Chile!

Patagonia is known to be one of the most amazing and top destinations in the world. The prestigious holiday destination of Patagonia South America, positioned between Chile and Argentina attracts visitors from all over the world for various reasons. This region comes with a lot of history, mountains, lakes, hills, beautiful flora and fauna. A quote from a missionary called Padre Agostini does support the beauty of Patagonia South America: “The Paine massif is unrivaled… In its colors and form it is without doubt one of the most fantastic and spectacular sights that human imagination can concieve.”

What Should You Expect Patagonia South America To Give You?

Torres del Paine national park

First, let’s start with the Torres del Paine national park (with an area of 2,400 km2) which is a popular hiking destination found in Patagonia South America. There are clearly marked paths and many refugios which provide shelter and basic services. Views are breathtaking. Hikers can opt for a day trip to see the towers, walk the popular “W” route in about five days, or trek the full circle in 8-9 days. It is a national park and thus hikers are not allowed to stray from the paths. Camping is only allowed at specified campsites, and wood fires are prohibited in the whole park.

A lot of tourists come each year to Torres del Paine National park in Patagonia South America. Even though you may come whenever you like official season is from september to april. There are many strong reasons people keeps coming. The beautiful fauna and flora are a delight.

A relative of the now domesticated llama, the guanaco (Patagonia’s largest land vertebrate) as well as elephant seals and the Patagonian puma are a handful of the animals that roam the plains of Torres del Paine. Guanacos live in groups, usually a single dominant male accompanied by up to 10 females and their young. Though elegantly formed creatures, guanacos exhibit a number of seemingly incongruous habits. When they greet, for example, the animals exchange a turkey-like gobble and then, on occasion, vomit a wad of semi-masticated grasses.

There many miles of trails for backpackers in Patagonia South America, from pristine glaciers and fjords of remote to the famous Torres del Paine W Trail with the amazing view of the Cuernos del Paine and the Nordenksjold, Pehoe and Grey Lakes. It is a medium level hike and usually takes four days. Torres del Paine National Park Trail system has land and water-based trails with recognized recreational, scenic, and historic value. Do not forget to sail on the Grey II, a small ship that sails twice everyday to the vey feet of Grey glaciers where you will have a whisky on the rocks with millennial ices.

Ecotourism And Farming Activities In Chilean Patagonia

Farming activities are common in Patagonia South America lands. There are places like Rio Verde, Skyring Sound, Tierra del Fuego and many others where they produce lamb wool to export. The farming activities have become more and more interesting and it is not easy to enjoy watching these activities unless you are a relative person to a farm.

To add to the excitement, there are some “estancias” in Patagonia South America that are open to public so you can visit them and see how they work or a representation of how a typical estancia or farm works. I have bee in Skyring sound making some photography for a customer and it was really beautiful. Feeling the contact with the animals and the people, just great!

Most tourists who have been in Patagonia South America, have always enjoyed visiting El Galpón, a tourism center near Punta Arenas where they represent the typical farming activities like sheep shearing, short trekking trails to know native flora and tasting the exquisite flavour of the “in the stick” style roasted lamb. We can cook lamb at home but the flavour of the traditional roasted lamb cooked in the fire with a stick throughout is something that will make anyone want to keep going back to Patagonia South America over and over.

El Galpon was established in 1920 as the Dairy of Bellavista Farm. Tomás Dick impulsed it in the 50’ s and currently, keeping its original structure has been transformed it into “El Galpón”, a get together place to enjoy Patagonia’s traditional cooking.

Fine Chilean handicraft items such as sheep and llama woolen garments can be purchased and a regional music group which sings and dances shows the typical Chilean folklore and there is a video where you can learn how Magellan was colonised.

I also enjoyed a panoramic view of Punta Arenas, the Straits of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego and Darwin mountain range; and i have seen the most representative species of grass, bushes, flowers and trees of the Patagonia South America.

Thing To Do In Patagonia South American Vacation

Tourists go to Patagonia South America for various interests, but some of them do visit the region to take in its natural beauty in its astounding scenery, whereas adrenaline junkies take advantage of the extreme natural phenomena such as the violent lakes that are perfect for kayaking and white water rafting. Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful break or an action packed holiday, everyone that sets foot on Patagonia South American land is taken back by its organic offerings.

Trekking Is The Best In Patagonia South America

The Patagonia South American region is home to the breathtaking Patagonian-Fueguinos Andes. One of the first things you should do when on a Patagonia tailor-made holiday is discover this mountain range, whether you stay in the foothills or are brave enough to ascend a little higher!

As one of the world’s famous holiday destinations, largely appreciated by students hoping to make the most out of their gap year, among many other types of people of course, Patagonia takes pride in what it has to offer those who seek serenity from the landscapes that appear untouched by mankind; a kind of peaceful solitude that only placid fishing lakes and graceful waterfalls can provide.

But the South American wonderland also accommodates for more adventurous holiday makers with the kind of dramatic mountain ranges sought by mountaineers from around the world, that also bring opportunities of skiing and mountain biking.

Another highly popular activity visitors take part in in Patagonia South America is trekking; exploring the truly unique landscape first hand and witnessing the region’s overwhelming natural offerings up close and personal. This activity is appreciated by all holiday makers, from those who enjoy simply observing the scenery to those who really get involved for an adrenaline rush that can’t be found anywhere else, because this exercise can be taken as far as you wish.

The Patagonia South American Treks are quickly building a reputation as a must do for everyone that visits the area, and this is because the landscape really has to be explored to be believed; shaped by the Andes and the ice cap. Patagonia South America is a unique natural wonder.

The Torres Del Paine route

There are a number of different treks on offer, each taking a unique route and showcasing different parts of the scenery, such as the world famous Torres Del Paine route, venturing through beautiful icy mountain ranges, valleys, glaciers, and stopping for lunch by crystal blue lakes in an easy to manage day-long trip. The Torres del Paine is for sure worth a visit, as its land is nestled between the Andes and the Patagonia South American steppes, there are 181,000 hectares for you to explore.

Patagonia South American Icecap treks

At the other end of the spectrum, the Patagonia South American Icecap trek allows more adventurous trekkers to face extreme weather conditions as they will set up camp on the third largest mass of ice in the world.

It is home to the Perito Moreno glacier, the largest of the 356 glaciers found here. The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 and it is easy to see why when you get closer to the Perito Moreno ice block, which is 60 m above sea level.

Los Glaciares National Park is in the south-west Argentinean province of Santa Cruz bordering Chile and looks stunning underneath the vast blue skies. It can sometimes be surprising that Patagonia is such a winter wonderland, especially when you have flown into humid and bustling cities before making your way to the region. You can find trails for people of all abilities, from those who would like to enjoy a gentle stroll to individuals keen to be a little bit more adventurous. Indeed, if high-adrenaline activities are desired while in Patagonia South America, a trip to the Los Glaciares National Park should not be missed.

The range of opportunities in the selection of treks on offer really does highlight the diversity of Patagonia South America as it accommodates for the contrasting personal tastes of different types of holiday makers, deeming these adventures an absolute essentiality for anyone that sets foot on Patagonia and hopes to make the most of what it has to offer.

A Patagonia South America trek is the perfect way to experience the region’s world famous assets. Routes like the Torres del Paine trek adhere to the personal tastes of any holiday maker, however they choose to take a break.

Horseback riding in Patagonia South America

One of the best ways to discover the varied landscape in Patagonia South America is by horseback, so booking an active holiday that includes this can be a wise idea. Trotting past volcanoes, dry grasslands and lakes, you will be educated by local hausos about the history of the area.

Meet with the locals, the “Hausos”

Hausos are expert equestrians and Chilean countrymen who often wear a traditional dress of poncho and straw hat, which adds to this cultural experience.

Water sports and fishing in Patagonia South America

Water sports are popular in Patagonia South America and what better way to spend a day than by kayaking, surfing, sailing or rafting on the turquoise lakes and waterways found in this region? Take in the picturesque backdrop as you glide across a lake, or discover the secrets of the water below by signing up to a diving excursion.

Another activity that is possible in Patagonia South America is fly-fishing, a relaxing activity for visitors who want to try your hand at catching the biggest wild trout. If you sample fish in some of the local eateries, you will be certain to notice just how fresh it is.

Wildlife watching

Last but not the least, the varied wildlife of Patagonia should not be forgotten, and with so much of your time here spent in the great outdoors, you might be lucky to spot some of the native creatures.

Overall, there are a ton of things to do in Patagonia South America, this is a getaway to South America with a difference – no matter how long or short your break is, this region of Argentina and Chile for sure guarantees creation of lasting memories to all tourists.

Tips to help you plan your Patagonia South America holidays

When to go to Patagonia South America – September to April are the best months to visit for warmer time activities. You can check next week weather forecast for Punta Arenas here.

How to get to Patagonia South America – There are many direct or one-stop flights from major cities to Santiago de Chile and then at least 3 daily flights to Punta Arenas which is 4 hours from Santiago de Chile (2000 miles). To travel by water you can take a cruise to Puerto Natales from Puerto Montt in an amazing 3 day trip by south channels.

Key travel tips specific to Patagonia South America – Southern weather can be unpredictable. Consider taking with you and wearing multiple layers of clothes in response to a wide variety of temperatures and weather conditions. Experiencing Patagonia South America on a low budget is possible, though it requires planning. From december to february room prices are higher. September and April are more relaxed and the weather only slightly chillier, are just as good times to go. Winter months are becoming increasingly popular, particularly for the sport activities. At this time of year hotel rates drop by as much as half.

I believe by now this article has given you a great a head start to start planning your holidays to Patagonia South America. If you then decide to book your adventure holiday in Patagonia, you certainly know that the region won’t be a disappointment. This stunning part of South America offers travelers the chance to soak up the landscape and cultures of both Argentina and Chile for a truly memorable getaway. Enjoy your travel to Patagonia South America!

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